What is the origin of the last name Lovell?
Countries of origin for the last name Lovell
The last name LOVELL is an Anglo-Saxon occupational surname that originated in medieval England. It is derived from the Middle English word “luvel,” meaning “to like” or “to love,” and the Old English word “leof,” meaning “dear” or “beloved.” The name was likely given to someone who worked as a servant or a lover, or it could have been a nickname for someone who was particularly amiable or affectionate.
The earliest instances of the LOVELL surname can be traced back to the Domesday Book, a detailed survey of England completed in 1086. The book records several individuals with the surname, indicating that it was already in use during that period. Over time, the surname spread to various parts of the country.
During the Middle Ages, the LOVELL family rose to prominence in England. The most notable member of the family was Francis LOVELL, 1st Viscount Lovell, who was a loyal supporter of King Richard III. He fought alongside the king in the Wars of the Roses and played a significant role in the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. However, after the defeat of Richard III and the ascension of Henry VII to the throne, LOVELL’s fortunes declined, and he eventually disappeared from historical records.
As with many surnames, the spelling of LOVELL has evolved over time. Variations of the name can be found, including LUVALL, LOVALL, and LOVEL, among others. These variations may have emerged due to regional accents, illiteracy, or the whims of scribes and record keepers. Nonetheless, the core meaning and significance of the name remained constant.
Today, the LOVELL surname is found primarily in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. Many individuals with the surname can be found across America, with concentrations in states such as Texas, California, and New York. The dissemination of the LOVELL name to various parts of the world can be attributed to factors such as immigration, colonization, and the desire for new opportunities.
Interesting facts about the last name Lovell
- The surname Lovell has English origins and is derived from a locational name, originally given to someone who hailed from one of the various places in England called Lovell, Lovel, or Lofthouse.
- The earliest recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 12th century, with a reference to one Symon Luvel in the Pipe Rolls of Suffolk, England.
- In some cases, Lovell may also have been used as a nickname for someone with a loving or lovable nature.
- The name Lovell gained prominence in medieval England, primarily due to the influential Lovell family, which was associated with the barony of Tichmarsh in Northamptonshire.
- Francis Lovell (1456-1487), the 1st Viscount Lovell and a close ally of King Richard III, was one of the most notable members of the Lovell family. He supported Richard during the Wars of the Roses and was later involved in the plot to overthrow Henry VII, leading to his disappearance and subsequent legends about his fate.
- The Lovell surname is relatively uncommon in the United States, with a frequency rank of 5,842 out of 88,799 surnames recorded in the 2010 US Census.
- Notable individuals with the surname Lovell include James A. Lovell, an American astronaut who was part of the Apollo 13 mission, and Jim Lovell, a professional basketball player who played for several teams in the NBA during the 1970s and 1980s.
- The surname Lovell has various alternative spellings, including Lovel and Lovill.
- In literature, the name Lovel(l) is associated with the character Richard Lovel(l) in William Shakespeare’s play “Richard III.”
Name Rank
#1700
There are around 21171 people with the last name Lovell in the US